Peter Howe
When a young budding badminton star Om Neelam fell from his bicycle and breakin g both wrists, you could be excused for thinking that twist of fate would end his sporting dream.
“Both of my arms were in plaster for fourteen weeks and then I was in rehab for another eight weeks to strengthen my wrists,” reflected Neelam.
“During that time, I focused on other parts of my body that I could strengthen. I spent many hours squeezing tennis balls and completing sets of exercises to strengthen my legs. Both
areas of my body that must be strong to be a good badminton player.”
Neelam’s resilience and single-minded focus belies his age. He turned 13 in February.
His quiet demeanor and inner strength are two of the reasons he was ranked the number one under-13 player in Victoria in 2021 and ranked number two in the under-15s.
This year Neelam is the under-15 national doubles champion and finished as a semi finalist in the under-15 singles where he lost to eventual champion.
Neelam followed his father, Naga’s love of badminton.
He picked up his first racquet when he was six, he played in his first tournament at eight.
“I would watch my dad play socially and I thought it looked fun,” Neelam said.
“I like many things about badminton, you must be fast and agile, the skill and strategy of the game always keeps you on your toes. You have to be thinking all the time and remain mentally strong. You must be physically fit.”
Neelam’s training regime is challenging. He wakes up at 5.30am five mornings a week and is at his school gym by 6.45am. He is back in the gym for another hour after school.
Neelam has the full support of his school, Maribyrnong Sports Academy.
He is currently in the under-17 Victorian state team and required to train at Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre each Tuesday.
“I have always played against older and stronger people; it adds to the challenge and my improvement. It improves my mental strength.”
Neelam was awarded a Victorian School Sport Award – “Sporting Blue” in badminton in 2021 and a high-performance coaching award.
He has won more than 60 titles in various age groups.
Neelam has his sights clearly set on representing Australia at the Olympics and winning a gold medal.
“I love challenges. I am not overwhelmed by the aim I have set for myself; I am just enjoying it.”
The Don Deeble Sports Star Award is sponsored by the Yarraville Club Cricket Club, Strathmore Community Bank, the Deer Park Club, Ascot Vale Sports and Trophies and The Star Weekly Newspapers.
If you would like to nominate a monthly winner or attend a dinner either contact swrsportsclub@gmail.com or 0408 556 631.
